Girlfriends Guide to Denver

Welcome to Denver, the Mile High City nestled in the heart of the beautiful state of Colorado. Known for its stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop, Denver offers a vibrant and dynamic urban experience with a laid-back, friendly vibe. Whether you're a nature enthusiast looking to explore the nearby hiking trails, a sports fan eager to catch a Broncos game, or a foodie in search of mouthwatering cuisine, Denver has something for everyone. From its thriving arts scene to its craft breweries and bustling neighborhoods, this city is brimming with energy and endless possibilities. So come on over and discover the charm of Denver for yourself!

Table of Contents

Disclosure: Girlfriend Weekend is a reader-supported site. We may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you click through our links and make a purchase from one of our partners. For details, refer to our Privacy Policy and Disclosure.

Where to Stay

We’ve curated a short-list of moderately priced boutique hotels perfect for your next girls’ weekend.

Note: some of the boutique hotels we recommend have a nightly amenities fee for some awesome extras included in your stay. Be sure to read about what’s included to take full advantage!

The ART, a hotel

Situated in Denver's Golden Triangle Creative District, The ART, a hotel, is known for its artistic ambiance and unique design. The ART showcases an extensive art collection throughout the property, modern and well-appointed rooms, a fitness center, and a gourmet rooftop bar and restaurant serving creative cuisine.

The ART, a hotel
The Curtis

Located in downtown Denver, The Curtis is a quirky and vibrant boutique hotel with a playful atmosphere. The hotel provides comfortable rooms with funky themes, a fitness center, and an on-site Starbucks. Check out the Corner Office Restaurant and Martini Bar serving a global inspired menu and crafy cocktails.

The Curtis
The Maven Hotel

Located in the trendy Dairy Block neighborhood, The Maven Hotel offers a stylish and modern boutique experience. The Maven offers comfortable and contemporary rooms, a fitness center, and multiple dining options, including a vibrant lobby bar and a coffee shop. There is a $25 amenities fee per night per room but in return, you get a curated list of exclusive deals and freebies in the neighborhood.

The Maven Hotel

Where to Eat

Recommending restaurants can be tricky – there are so many choices! Here we have recommended a few of our favorites, but be sure to check out our local search links below if you are looking for something specific. Bon Appétit!

Babe’s Tea Room is an afternoon tea café located near downtown Denver on Platte Street. The restaurant specializes in traditional afternoon tea service, offering tiered presentations of finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and desserts paired with an extensive selection of loose‑leaf teas. In addition to formal tea service, Babe’s also offers bubbly brunches, light café fare, and happy hour options, with both indoor seating and an outdoor patio featuring umbrella tables.

Barcelona Wine Bar is a Spanish‑inspired tapas restaurant located on Larimer Street in Denver’s RiNo/Five Points area. The restaurant centers on an ever‑changing menu of small plates influenced by Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, designed for sharing and sampling across the table. Barcelona Wine Bar is also known for its extensive wine program, featuring a large selection of wines primarily from Spain and South America, including many available by the glass. The space operates as a casual, sit‑down restaurant with dinner service, weekend brunch, happy hour, and late‑night hours.

El Five is a Mediterranean and Spanish tapas restaurant located on the fifth floor of a building in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood. The restaurant offers a menu of small plates influenced by Spain, North Africa, and the Middle East, designed for sharing and ordering across the table. El Five is known for its elevated setting and expansive views, with an open‑air patio and large windows that look out over the Denver skyline.

Happy Camper is a pizza‑focused restaurant and bar located in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood on Pecos Street. The venue offers specialty pizzas, shareable appetizers, and a wide selection of cocktails and beer in a casual, high‑energy setting. The space is known for its large outdoor patio and bold interior design featuring neon signage, disco balls, and communal seating. Happy Camper serves brunch, lunch, dinner, and late‑night food.

Postino is a wine‑focused restaurant and wine café known for its approachable wine list and food menu built around shareable boards, bruschetta, paninis, salads, and small plates designed for casual group dining. Postino operates as a full‑day spot, serving brunch, lunch, dinner, and happy hour, and offers both indoor seating and patios depending on the location.

Wonderyard Garden + Table is a bar‑forward restaurant located on Larimer Street in Denver’s Ballpark/RiNo area. The venue offers a menu centered on flatbreads and shareable plates, along with an inventive cocktail and zero‑proof beverage program. The space is designed with a lush, garden‑themed aesthetic and includes both indoor dining and a large outdoor area. Wonderyard serves lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

Want to see more options? We’ve included our favorite search links for this destination below. Use them for research or bookmark this site to use them on the fly when you want to search nearby.

What to See

If you and the girls want a peaceful, picture‑perfect escape, the Denver Botanic Gardens is the ultimate spot. Set in the charming Cheesman Park neighborhood, this 24‑acre garden is packed with stunning themed areas, a tropical conservatory, and even a sunken amphitheater that hosts dreamy outdoor concerts all summer long.

Art lovers will want to pop into the Freyer‑Newman Center, where rotating exhibitions add an extra splash of creativity to your visit.
When you’re ready for a snack or drink, the Gardens have you covered. Grab a bite at any of four dining options.

Offshoots Café — located in the main building near the Water‑Smart Garden, perfect for a light bite or a refresh.
The Hive — a modern bistro tucked under the trees beside the Monet Pool, ideal for a breezy lunch.
The Hot Dog Cart — yes, it’s adorable, and yes, they even have vegetarian brats.
Copper Door Coffee Roasters — a full‑service coffee bar to keep your energy up as you wander.

It’s gorgeous, peaceful, and full of little surprises, the perfect spot for a girls’ day of strolling, chatting, and soaking up that Colorado sunshine.

For a dose of history, charm, and a seriously inspiring story, the Molly Brown House Museum is a must‑see on your Denver girls’ trip. Located at 1340 Pennsylvania Street, this beautifully restored 1889 Victorian home once belonged to Margaret “Molly” Brown, the legendary Titanic survivor, philanthropist, and all‑around powerhouse who lived here from 1894 to 1932.

Today, the museum is run by Historic Denver, Inc., and guided tours take you through room after room filled with original artifacts and early 20th‑century decor. It’s like stepping straight into Molly’s world, elegant, bold, and full of personality (just like the woman herself).

It’s the perfect spot for a little culture, a little storytelling, and a whole lot of “wow, she was amazing” energy with your girlfriends.

Just outside Denver, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the most iconic concert venues in the world, and it’s just as magical even when there’s no show happening. This naturally formed, open‑air amphitheater is celebrated for its near‑perfect acoustics, dramatic scenery, and status as a National Historic Landmark. The stage is framed by two massive red sandstone monoliths (Creation Rock and Ship Rock) towering formations that are hundreds of millions of years old and act as natural sound amplifiers. Whether you’re attending a concert, a wellness event, or just soaking in the views, the setting alone feels cinematic.

Red Rocks sits within a Denver Mountain Park, offering hundreds of acres of open space, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails that weave through the iconic red rock formations. You can also check out the Visitor Center with exhibits on Red Rocks history and geology, the Colorado Music Hall of Fame (celebrating musicians connected to the state) and the historic Trading Post, a favorite stop for unique Red Rocks souvenirs, apparel, and memorabilia.

Beyond concerts, Red Rocks hosts seasonal events that are especially popular for girls trips:

Yoga on the Rocks – yoga sessions with sweeping views and live DJ accompaniment
Film on the Rocks – classic and cult‑favorite movies shown under the stars in the amphitheatre

These events sell out quickly, so it’s worth checking the Red Rocks calendar in advance when planning your weekend.

Denver Union Station is one of those “you can’t miss it” spots, a gorgeous landmark in the heart of lively Lower Downtown (LoDo) that’s equal parts historic icon and modern hangout. First opened in 1881, rebuilt in 1914, and beautifully reimagined in 2014, the station is now a chic gathering place filled with energy, culture, and some of Denver’s best food, drinks, and shopping.

Whether you’re grabbing a cozy latte from a local roaster to kick off your morning, treating yourself to something sweet, or sipping a cocktail under the glow of downtown lights, you’ll find the perfect vibe inside the station’s stylish lineup of restaurants and bars.
Union Station is also your go‑to spot for eclectic local shops, year‑round events and pop‑ups, and that perfect “downtown Denver” photo op!

City Park
Credit: Pixabay

What to Do

Discover the best of downtown Denver and visit neighborhoods that many other tourists miss on this in-depth group or private walking tour. Discover many key landmarks, such as the Center for Colorado Women’s History, the State Capitol, and the Brown Palace Hotel, all while learning about the Colorado capital’s history. Then, head to the trendy LoDo district to see another side of the city. Come for the Rocky Mountain views, stay for the incredible culture and history.

Beer and bikes are two of Denverites’ favorite things, which makes this the perfect way to check out downtown Denver. The nine-mile ride takes you down riverside paths, up neighborhood streets, and through downtown via the city’s extensive bike lane system. Check out the sports stadiums, historic buildings, and many public art installations, then refuel at a local tap room toward the end fo the tour. Guests are responsible for their own bar tabs.

Spoil yourself and combine wellness with indulgence at this private spa and sauna experience with a dedicated craft beer theme. Sit back and indulge with an infrared sauna, rain shower, and beer-inspired hydrotherapy tub filled with ingredients typically used in brewing. While you pamper, sip craft beer, wine, or soft drinks (extra cost).

Indulge in some of Denver’s finest cocktails (or mocktails, if option selected) and learn all about the city’s drinks culture and history, from Prohibition to today on this small-group tour. Setting off from the heart of Denver, you’ll follow your guide to three of the city’s top cocktail bars, and discover places and stories you wouldn’t encounter on your own. Indulge in four craft cocktails, as well as food pairings, as you go.

Tour-goers will be guided on foot through the RiNo Art District to see some of the best murals and street art in the country. We’ll stop at anywhere from 20-30 pieces, but you’ll see nearly 100. (And we love questions about all of it.) We’ll also stop to discuss the neighborhood’s rapid change has brought new hip businesses but also contributed to the displacement of long-time residents … and has had an effect on the art. We’ll end at Denver Central Market (about a 1/2 mile from the start) where you can grab food or drink from any of the gourmet food hall’s 10 restaurants.

The Denver Botanic Gardens offers a fragrant, floral escape from the Mile-High City, right in the heart of a historic urban neighborhood. Your general admission ticket grants you access to ‘living exhibits’ of native Colorado species plus plants from around the world. Wander beautifully landscaped trails at your leisure and pop into Offshoots Cafe for a refreshment.

Where to Shop

Denver’s revitalized 16th Street Mall is a mile‑long, pedestrian‑friendly stretch packed with shopping, dining, and downtown energy. It offers a perfect day of strolling, sipping, and people‑watching. The free 16th Street FreeRide shuttle stops on every corner, so you can hop on and off with ease as you explore boutiques, cafés, and attractions. With 42 outdoor patios, it’s one of the best spots in the city to grab a drink or a bite and soak in the scene. At the south end, Denver Pavilions offers more than two dozen shops and restaurants, while the north end leads to pedestrian bridges connecting downtown to Commons Park and LoHi, one of Denver’s trendiest neighborhoods for dining and brewpub hopping. It’s downtown Denver at its most lively and walkable.

Cherry Creek North is Denver’s most stylish, walkable neighborhood. It’s home to more than 300 businesses and the city’s highest concentration of locally owned shops. This is the perfect place for a girls’ day of boutique‑hopping, al fresco dining, and soaking in the neighborhood’s vibrant, upscale vibe. Within just a few blocks, you’ll find chic clothing and accessory retailers, home décor stores, galleries, spas, and more than 65 restaurants ranging from cozy cafés to elegant wine‑worthy patios. Located at 1st Avenue and University Boulevard and just minutes from downtown, Cherry Creek North invites you to sip, shop, stroll, and savor the good life in one of Denver’s most beloved districts.

Red Rocks Ampitheatre
Credit: Dionel Rodriguez | Pexels

Nightlife

For those of you looking for a fun night out on your girls’ getaway, we’ve got your back. Whether it’s dancing the night away or girl talk over delicious cocktails, we’ve got options. We’ll help you find the right fit with our favorite local search links below.

Call Me Pearl is an elegant cocktail bar in downtown Denver created to feel like a glamorous yet intimate home cocktail party. Here you will find beautifully crafted cocktails served in a warm, gilded setting with plush seating and soft lighting. The menu focuses on refined drinks and seafood‑leaning small plates. Check the calendar for special events. Every other Wednesday, you can participate in “Prophecies at Pearl’s” for Tarot Card or Numerology Readings.

Cimera is a vibrant Pan‑Latin rooftop restaurant and cocktail bar perched atop The Source Hotel in Denver’s RiNo district. It serves bold, colorful dishes inspired by Latin America (think fresh ceviches, Nikkei‑style sushi, shareable street foods, and Latin‑inspired mains) paired with creative cocktails, all set against sweeping views of the Denver skyline and Rocky Mountains. The space blends indoor dining with an open‑air patio, colorful murals, and a lively atmosphere.

Desert Social Bar & Lounge is a stylish, moody cocktail bar located on South Broadway, known for its desert‑inspired aesthetic, expertly crafted cocktails, and relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The space blends warm, earthy design with thoughtful lighting and both indoor seating and a cozy patio. It’s strictly a cocktail and mocktail bar but it’s surrounded by great food spots nearby if you want to make a night of it.

The Grizzly Rose is a legendary country bar, nightclub, and dance hall in Denver, open since 1989 and widely known as one of the last great honky‑tonks in the country. It features live country music multiple nights a week, a massive floating hardwood dance floor, and a true Western atmosphere (think cowboy boots, line dancing, and big‑name country artists past and present).

Mystic Lounge is an intimate, stylish cocktail lounge in Denver’s Santa Fe Arts District, known for handcrafted cocktails, cozy vibes, and a Tulum‑inspired atmosphere. The space is relaxed, featuring thoughtfully made drinks, small bites, an outdoor patio, and even a hidden, award‑winning escape room tucked behind the lounge for those looking for something extra.

Room for Milly is a chic craft‑cocktail bar in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood, known for beautifully composed drinks, small bites inspired by global travel, and a warm, design‑forward space full of color and character. The vibe is modern yet cozy with an intimate interior and sidewalk patio that invite lingering over conversation and cocktails.

Articles & Itineraries

No articles yet. Check back often!

Events

Camp Mahj - All-Inclusive Mahjong Retreat
September 13, 2026
- September 15, 2026
Mahjong Retreat
Great American Beer Festival
October 8, 2026
- October 10, 2026
gfwknd-beer-festival

Are you a travel blogger who lives in this destination? Write for us!

We are accepting Girlfriend Weekend Itineraries for this destination. Find out more here.